Improve the view with accent windows

No matter how much you love your property, spending a lot of time at home can cause the scenery outside your window to become a little tiresome, especially in the low light of winter. However, adding an accent window or replacing an existing window with a different style window can improve the view by letting more light into the house and providing a slightly different perspective. Windows can be decorative and pleasing to look at while also protecting the interior of the home from weather, letting in light and providing a view of the outdoors. Below are just a few different styles of windows that are available and can enhance the view from any home.

CLERESTORY WINDOW

More decorative than functional, clerestory windows are set into an exterior wall above eye level. These windows draw the eye upward and offer a different view in that respect. Better Homes & Gardens says, "Clerestory windows trace their origins to Gothic cathedrals, which featured an upper level of windows rising above the adjoining rooftops." The windows themselves can be elaborately designed in various shapes and sizes and different types of glass.

PORTHOLE WINDOW

Porthole windows originated in boat design and are versatile windows that can create a nautical look for a beach house, pool house, boat house or any house. Large or small, dressed up with decorative molding or an inner grid design, porthole windows can add style and drama to the home while also creating a source of natural light. Several shapes are available, such as oval or octagon that vary from the round nautical theme and can enhance the existing architecture.

EYEBROW DORMER WINDOW

Dormer windows add light and space to the top floor and can follow the shape of the dormer roof. For example, an eyebrow dormer has a curved roof resembling the shape of an eyebrow from where it gets it name. The window in an eyebrow dormer can curve along the top following the line of the dormer roof. Thisoldhouse.com explains: "Because eyebrow dormers are curved on top, their windows usually are, too." However, the window doesn't have to follow the curved roofline and can be straight edged in contrast with the dormer roof.

PICTURE WINDOW

A picture window is a large window with unobstructed glass that doesn't open. Its purpose is to let in natural light and provide a framed view of the outdoors much like a picture frame surrounds a painting. Because picture windows have no moving parts they provide a nice view without the risk of drafts.

PALLADIAN WINDOW

Britanica.com defines a Palladian window: "Palladian window, in architecture, three-part window composed of a large, arched central section flanked by two narrower, shorter sections having square tops." Although Palladian windows are traditionally formal and historically chosen to portray wealth as in the New Room at Mount Vernon, more modest designs are available for today's homes.

WINDOW WALL

A window that spans an entire wall brings the dramatic sense of being outdoors while enjoying the comforts of home. Better Homes & Gardens says, "When you've got a view of sandy beach and endless water, walling off a room seems like cruel self-deprivation." Furniture facing the window provides a comfortable space to enjoy the view and beauty of the passing seasons. Window walls also fill the room with added natural light and a feeling of a larger room.

MIXTURE OF WINDOW STYLES

Window styles can be grouped together to create a decorative focal point. For example, round porthole style windows can be placed in rows above or to either side of a picture window. Smaller accent windows can be placed above or to either side of the arch of a palladium window as well. Mixing window styles not only brings additional natural light into the house but creates a unique window display.